Mikumi National Park
Top Reasons to Visit Mikumi National Park
- Home to the Rare and Beautiful Sable Antelope
- Frequent Encounters with Eland,Africa’s Largest Antelope
- Flat, Open Plains That Mirror the Serengeti but without the Crowds
- Baobab-Dotted Landscapes Ideal for Iconic African Safari Photos
Discover Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is one of the most accessible and popular safari parks in Tanzania, located about 4–5 hours from Dar es Salaam by road. Covering an area of over 3,230 square kilometres, it is the eighth largest national park in Tanzania. Mikumi is part of the greater Selous ecosystem and shares its borders with Nyerere National Park to the south.
The park is famous for its wide, open plains that make it easy to spot wildlife. Animals you can expect to see include elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalos, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, and a variety of antelopes. The park is also home to over 400 bird species, making it great for bird lovers.
One of the best places for game viewing is the Mkata Floodplain, often compared to the Serengeti because of its open landscape and high concentration of animals. The hippo pools near the road are also a popular stop where you can see hippos and crocodiles up close.
Surrounded by the Uluguru and Rubeho Mountains, Mikumi offers stunning views that add to its natural beauty. Because of its location and size, it’s a great option for both short safaris and as a stopover on longer trips to Selous or Ruaha.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or adding it to a longer safari, Mikumi National Park offers a real wildlife experience with fewer crowds and easy access from the city.
What to Do at Mikumi National Park
Day Game Drives
Day game drives are the main way to explore Mikumi National Park. You will drive through open plains and see animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. The roads are good and the land is flat, so it’s easy to spot wildlife. Most animals are active in the morning and late afternoon. A guide helps you find the best spots and explains what you see
Night Game Drives
Night game drives let you discover Mikumi after the sun goes down. With a spotlight, you can see animals like hyenas, bush babies, jackals, and sometimes leopards. The night feels quiet and wild, giving you a different experience than during the day. A guide helps you stay safe and points out hidden animals. It’s a peaceful and exciting activity for nature lovers.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris are a great way to explore nature on foot. With a trained ranger, you walk through safe parts of the park while learning about animal tracks, insects, birds, and plants. It’s not about chasing big animals, it’s about noticing the small things. You move slowly and carefully, connecting more deeply with the wild. This is perfect for people who enjoy learning and observing quietly.
Bird Watching
Mikumi is home to more than 400 species of birds. You can spot birds like horn bills, eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters, and storks. Some birds stay all year, while others migrate during different seasons. You can enjoy bird watching during game drives or nature walks. Just bring your binoculars and enjoy the beauty of the skies and trees.
Where to Stay in Mikumi National Park
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
Vuma Hills Tented Camp is a luxury tented camp set on a hillside, with beautiful views over the Mikumi plains. Each tent is raised on a wooden platform and comes with an en-suite bathroom and hot shower. The camp has a lovely swimming pool and an open-air dining area. It’s perfect for travellers looking for comfort while still feeling close to the wild. You may even hear animals at night, adding to the adventure.
Tan-Swiss Lodge
Tan-Swiss Lodge is located just outside the main entrance to Mikumi National Park. It offers clean, spacious rooms and well-kept gardens, making it a comfortable and affordable option. The lodge has a good restaurant with both local and international meals. It’s also a popular choice for families and groups. Safari trips into the park can be arranged directly through the lodge.
Camp Bastian Mikumi
Camp Bastian is an eco-lodge located close to the park gate, surrounded by trees and nature. It offers a mix of private cottages and camping sites, all built with a touch of local style. The lodge has a relaxed, friendly vibe and is known for its excellent food and service. There’s also a small pool and play area, making it ideal for families. It’s a great choice if you want comfort with a natural feel.
How to get to Mikumi National Park
Traveling by Safari Car
One of the most popular and convenient ways to get to Mikumi is by safari car. Many travellers choose this option because it allows for flexibility and comfort. If you’re departing from Dar es Salaam, the journey by car typically takes about four to five hours. Traveling by Safari Vehicle allows you to stop along the way for sightseeing or refreshments, and is especially ideal for families or those booking a full safari package through a tour operator.
Flying to Mikumi National Park
Flying is the fastest way to get to Mikumi National Park and is a great option for those short on time or looking for a more luxurious experience. Charter flights are available from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to the Kikoboga Airstrip, which is located inside the park. The flight from Dar es Salaam takes about an hour, while flights from Zanzibar may include a stop in Dar but usually take under two hours in total. Several regional airlines operate this route, making it easy to combine a beach holiday with a safari adventure.
Other Places to Visit in Mikumi National Park.
Mkata Floodplain
This is the heart of Mikumi’s wildlife viewing area. It’s an open savannah landscape where animals like elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes gather in large numbers. The floodplain is especially famous for its lion population, often spotted lazing under acacia trees or surveying the plains. Because of its openness, it offers some of the best game viewing and photography opportunities in the park.
Vuma Hills Area
This elevated part of the park offers views of the surrounding landscapes and is rich in wildlife. It’s a quieter area compared to the Mkata Floodplain but provides a more intimate and peaceful safari experience. You might also spot different species here, including elands and sable antelopes. Vuma Hill is also known for some lovely picnic sites.
